Smart Living Weekly - November 25, 2015

n s hi o lt s ca a Lo Se

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n iving g Smart L ivi ivin ng Weekly Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • Rockford Region/Freeport 95¢ • Nov. 25, 2015

™

Right in Our Region

Stroll on State Brightens Downtown

By Lindsey Gapen, assistant editor

R

ockford’s favorite hometown holiday experience, Stroll on State, returns for its third year of yuletide excitement on Saturday, Nov. 28, from 3-9 p.m. Guests can wander around State Street, from Third Street to Main Street, while experi-

encing the merry sights, sounds and smells of the holiday season. This year, Illinois Bank & Trust is the presenting sponsor of this free public event.

Continued on p. 20

Live a Better Quality of Life Reading & Using Smart Living Weekly Proudly Serving the Needs of 326,000 Neighbors -- For Your Home, Health & Fun! Squirrels Eating Your Birdseed? • Talking Turkey • 12 Things to Know About Your Heart Holiday Shopping Savvy •A Buy-Local Gift Market • Vacation-Planning Tips

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NOV 28

for the Holidays NOV 28

www.edgebrookshops.com 1639 N. Alpine Rd • Rockford, Illinois • 815.226-0212

Experience Downtown Rockford

In This Issue Right in Our Region ........................Cover & p. 22 Stroll on State Returns

Your Home .................................................. ..... 11 Are You Feeding Birds or Squirrels?

Inspiration & Worship ......................................12 Who Was Deborah?

Your Kitchen .....................................................15 Talking Turkey with Pete

Your Health ............................................. .......... 26 12 Things to Know About Your Heart

Your Fun ................................................... ......... 27

Restaurant of the Week ................................... 29 Rockford Brewing Co.

Dining Locally .......................................... ........ 29

Your Outing .......................................................32 A Buy Local Event

Smart L iving Weekly ™

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes

Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Janine Pumilia Deputy Editor Sarah Soenke Assistant Editor Lindsey Gapen Senior Staff Writer/Promotions Coordinator Paul Anthony Arco Graphics Director Blake Nunes Graphic Designer Samantha Ryan Contributing Writers Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes General Manager/Northwest Business Magazine Dave Marino Account Executives Brian Hughes Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Website www.NWQSmartLiving.com Published by Hughes Media Corp.

222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 Smart Living Weekly.

Copyright 2015 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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Nov. 25

Thankful to Survive

B

eing thankful for good things is a healthy habit, whether or not we’re religious.

But in the U.S., Thanksgiving is a distinctly Christian holiday by origin.

The concept of “thanksgiving for the harvest” dates back to ancient times, in both monotheistic and polytheistic world cultures.

Here in the New World, setting aside days for fasting and thanksgiving was common among 1600s Puritans.

In 1621, Gov. William Bradford, of Plymouth, Mass., organized a three-day celebration for giving thanks after the colony’s first successful corn harvest, inviting Native Americans to join in the merrymaking. The colonists celebrated survival itself.

Much later, the Continental Congress designated one or more days of thanksgiving per year. Then, in 1789, President George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving Proclamation, asking Americans to thank God for their new country and to ask His blessings upon it. Presidents John Adams and James Madison followed suit, unofficially.

Perhaps the greatest champion of a national U.S. Thanksgiving holiday was author Sarah Josepha Hale (composer of “Mary Had a Little Lamb.”) For nearly four decades, she urged politicians to set aside an official day for Americans to give thanks for their country.

Hale’s cause was finally answered by President Abraham Lincoln (wouldn’t ya know it?) in 1863, during the Civil War. Lincoln chose the final Thursday in November and it remained so until 1939, when Franklin D. Roosevelt moved it up a week to spur retail sales during the Great Depression. Critics referred to his action as “Franksgiving,” and, in 1941, he reluctantly signed a bill again making it the fourth Thursday in November.

Today, for many Americans, the holiday is about food, football and a lead-in to Black Friday. But it began with prayers for our nation and gratitude for survival itself. Not a bad idea, right?

Have a great holiday! ❚

Put your money where you ROCKFORD hang your stocking ~Shop Local ! a message from your locally owned Credit Union

Janine Pumilia Executive Editor

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Smart Living

Holiday Shopping Guide

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Nov. 25

Y H  G

Are You Feeding Birds or Squirrels?

By Peggy Werner

T

emperatures drop, leaves fall, and the signs are clear that winter is on its way, but you can constantly remind yourself of the beauty and freshness of spring by taking care of nature’s feathered friends.

The care and feeding of birds year round is the prime objective of Wild Birds Unlimited, 631 S. Perryville Road, Rockford.

“It’s all about connecting people with nature,” says Phil Rezin, owner of the local business for the past three years.

The store specializes in top quality bird feeders, birdseed, birdbaths, gifts, and information to enrich the world of the bird lover who wants to create a bounteous, safe backyard haven for birds.

One of the most popular items in the store is the advanced pole system, which has a secure screw-in base that goes

about 1.5 feet into the ground to stabilize it for as many straight or curved extensions as a homeowner would like to add.

The extensions can hold bird feeders of various kinds at various heights as well as plants and birdbaths. The basic set up with two hangers starts at $70.

To protect the feeders from squirrels, raccoons and other seed-eating animals, Wild Birds Unlimited offers a premier steel baffle, wide enough and smooth enough to keep any animal from being able to grasp on and get to a bird feeder.

“If you can’t squirrel-proof a feeder, you can squirrel-proof a pole,” says Rezin.

Squirrel-proofing bird feeders is the No. 1 concern of backyard bird watchers, says Rezin. A homeowner often runs out of birdseed twice as fast when other animals can access the seed. Some weight-sensitive feeders work to discour-

age squirrels, but not all are effective, he says.

And here’s another trick: Some people add pepper to birdseed because birds don’t have taste buds, while mammals won’t like the taste in their mouths. ❚

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Nov. 25

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I  W

Who Was Deborah?

L

ong before Israel became a kingdom, its 12 tribes were loosely joined without a central government. The people wavered in their relationship to God, often getting swept up in idolatry, which led to their oppression at the hand of various enemies. At other times, they repented and turned back to God, led by a divinely inspired person known as a “judge.”

Most of the judges were in some way flawed or handicapped, at least by the standards of their culture. Sampson had a weak spot for bad women; Gideon lacked courage; Jephthah was the son of a prostitute; Ehud was left-handed; and Deborah … was a woman. “Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided,” says Judges 4:4.

Deborah sets up a plan to defeat Israel’s latest oppressor, Jabin the king of Canaan, and Sisera, the commander of his army.

Deborah’s plan works and Sisera ends up having a tent peg driven through his head, while sleeping, thanks to a woman named Jael. This fulfills a prophecy by Deborah that “the Lord will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman” rather than into the hands of Barak, the most influential man in Israel at the time.

In Judges 4:23 we read, “On that day God subdued Jabin king of Canaan before the Israelites.”

Afterward, Deborah oversaw Israel for 20 peaceful years.

Why did God choose people with social “flaws” to lead His people? Perhaps to illustrate that the weakest among us may overcome all odds when relying upon God’s strength rather than our own.

Many centuries later, the Apostle Paul would quote the Lord Jesus Christ saying: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) ❚ This is the 10th in a series about major figures of the Bible. Sign up for your free digital edition of Smart Living Weekly at NWQSmartLiving.com.

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Nov. 13

Y K

Talking Turkey with Pete at 640 Meats B y K a r l a N a g y, a s s o c i a t e e d i t o r

F

orget the Butterball Hotline or Food Network’s “Thanksgiving Live.”

Local meat master Pete Lentz, butcher and owner of 640 Meats, 6410 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, has the answers to your turkey preparation queries.

Lentz says. “I tuck in the wing tips or cover them in foil, to keep them from burning. I put some water in the bottom of the pan and baste every 30 minutes.”

Fresh vs. Frozen: “Fresh turkeys are juicer and more tender,” says Lentz.

“Frozen turkeys are injected with a solution of water and sodium, for preservation. When they thaw, they lose all of that moisture.”

Seasoning: “Some people brine a fresh turkey,” says Lentz. “That’s soaking it in a solution of salt and herbs for 24 hours before cooking. You can do it with a thawed bird, but it’s already salty because of that injected solution.”

Lentz says he seasons his fresh turkey with just salt and pepper and then rubs butter under the skin, for extra flavor and moisture.

Stuffed vs. Unstuffed: “I prefer to cook the stuffing outside of the bird,” says Lentz. “The turkey cooks faster when it isn’t stuffed.” He fills the cavity with fresh-cut apples and salt and pepper. “The apples add moisture, and give a little apple flavor. I throw the apples away afterward. Some people stuff their birds with carrots and celery or other kinds of vegetables.”

Cooking Method: “I bake my bird,” says Lentz. “It’s a personal preference. I have customers who deep-fry theirs, but I’ve never done that. Just make certain the bird is completely thawed if it was frozen, and that you’ve patted it completely dry, before it hits that hot oil.”

Covered vs. Uncovered: “I cook my turkey uncovered, at a lower temperature – 325 F, rather than 350 or 375,”

How to Thaw: A frozen turkey is best thawed slowly in the refrigerator, so planning ahead is vital. “A 25-lb. bird will take four or five days to thaw this way,” he says.

Lentz will receive fresh turkeys from a farm in southern Wisconsin, on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, in all different weights.

“They come to me processed and in cryovac bags, so they’ll be good in your fridge for two weeks, if you don’t cook them on Thanksgiving.” ❚

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Smart•Living Weekly Nov. 25 19 GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 www.gustafsonfurniture.com

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GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 • www.gustafsonfurniture.com

Hometown Merchant for 87 Years!

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Thank You, Rockford, for Voting Us Your Number 1 Furniture Store

0% Interes t

*

Prices valid through 12/2/15 Open 24 hours on the web

Find us on Facebook

Ashley 5 Piece Dining Set

YOU CHOOSE - 499 EACH POWER BEDS

TWINS STARTING AT

899

ULTRA COMFORT

LIFT CHAIR

588

Photos for illustration only. Not responsible for typographical errors.

We reserve the right not to honor any incorrect pricing.

Artisan "Antique" Island w/5 drawers

Now

1349

GUSTAFSON'S FURNITURE & MATTRESS I

N

S

T

O

R

E

UPHOLSTERY:

UPHOLSTERY SETS:

BEST: PWR LIFT 1AW21-20029 WAS 1049 NOW 575 ULTRA COMFORT PWR LIFT C HAIR/RECL PL340 WAS 989 NOW 599

ENGLAND STORAGE OTTOMAN 4530 WAS 659 NOW 299 ENGLAND OTTOMAN 5637 WAS 489 NOW 199 NATUZZI SOFA B61900920 WAS 2765 NOW 1799 HGTV 2544-62, 2570-55 SOFA AND OTTOMAN WAS 2439 NOW 1499 ENGLAND LOVESEAT 6206AL WAS 1919 NOW 750 HGTV 2542-52 STUDIO SOFA WAS 1369 NOW 550 HGTV 2560-02 GEMSTONE ACCENT CHAIR WAS 1169 NOW 675 KINCAID CHAIR 167-84 WAS 959 NOW 350 BASSETT CHAIR 3977-12FC WAS 799 NOW 399 BASSETT CHAIR 3999-12FC WAS 899 NOW 499 KINCAID CHAIR 625-84 WAS 1629 NOW 899 ENGLAND CHAISE 1L00-80 WAS 939 NOW 499

UPHOLSTERY SETS:

BROYHILL 4231 SECTIONAL WAS 2029 NOW 1699 ASHLEY CHAIR 6400221 WAS 479 NOW 250 ENGLAND SECTIONAL 1W00 WAS 2180 NOW 1299 BEST WINGBACK CHAIR 0660DC-1 WAS 599 NOW 375 ASHLEY SECTIONAL 7070 WAS 1400 NOW 725 ENGLAND SOFA/LOVESEAT 6205AL,6206AL WAS 3200 NOW 2400 ASHLEY RECLINING SECTIONAL 1080 WAS 3250 NOW 2400 ASHLEY OTTOMAN 8670208 WAS 329 NOW 199 ENGLAND OTTOMAN 2407R WAS 459 NOW 199

C

L

A

S

S

I

F

BASSETT CHAIR 1019-02-LINEN WAS 929 NOW 525

WOOD PRODUCTS:

BASSETT COCKTAIL TABLE 6767-0613 WAS 699 NOW 299 ASHLEY T600-13 ENDTABLES(PAIR) WAS 750 NOW 315 BASSETT DRESSER/MIRROR 2767-0242/0237 WAS 1869 NOW 750 ASHLEY T720 COCKTAIL TABLE W/1 END TABLE NOW 399 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T165-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T231-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T269-13 WAS 299 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T140-13 WAS 319 NOW 199 ASHLEY 3PK TABLES T142-13 WAS 305 NOW 199 BROYHILL SOFA TABLE 4812-009 WAS 549 NOW 299

I

E

D

ENGLAND 3PK TABLES H279221/201 WAS 1369 NOW 799 ASHLEY CHEST B429-46 WAS 679 NOW 399 ASHLEY END TABLE T845-3 WAS 429 NOW 175 ASHLEY YOUTH GIRLS NIGHTSTAND WAS 199 NOW 75 ASHLEY NIGHTSTAND B697-92 WAS 499 NOW 195 ASHLEY NIGHTSTAND B246-92 WAS 589 NOW 175 BROYHILL END TABLE 4986-0000 WAS 409 NOW 95 BROYHILL ENDTABLE 4310-002 WAS 369 NOW 125 ASHLEY SOFA TABLE T697-4 WAS 649 NOW 350 ASHLEY DRESSER B562-31 WAS 569 NOW 299 PRIMO FUTON FRAME 2814 WAS 620 NOW 250 FASHION TWIN PLATFORM FRAME B51093 WAS 319 NOW 195 BROYHILL QUEEN STORAGE BED 4444-450 WAS 1500 NOW 599

Smart•Living Weekly Nov. 25 21 GUSTAFSON FURNITURE • 808 W. Riverside, Rockford, IL • 815.636.8608 www.gustafsonfurniture.com

R  O R

Stroll on State Continued from Cover

“Stroll on State is about coming together as a community to celebrate the season and to celebrate Rockford,” says Josh Albrecht, director of marketing and public affairs for the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (RACVB).

“This year, we’re pleased to announce several new partnerships and experiences that will enhance and sustain Stroll on State. Stroll has quickly become a community tradition that our citizens love and look forward to.”

When Stroll on State launched in 2013, more than 30,000 people attended.

The following year, with an expansion of activities, crowds doubled to 60,000. This year’s event is expected to expand again with more activities than ever before.

Daytime activities include outdoor and indoor ice skating with costumed characters at the Riverview Ice House,

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324 N. Madison St.; horse and wagon rides beginning at Water Street and East State; and an outdoor SantaLand near Millennium Fountain, on Water Street. Two outdoor markets are set to take place: one at the corner of North Main and Mulberry streets, and another at the City Market Pavilion, 212 N. Water St. The main event, the lighting of the city Christmas trees, happens at the corner of West State and Wyman streets at 7 p.m. The lighting is followed by a fireworks display over the Rock River.

Throughout the night, visitors can enjoy the new Rockford River Lights along the riverbanks between the Jefferson Street and State Street bridges. The magnificent display of dancing lights, set

Nov. 25

to music, is expected to wow the crowds.

“River Lights will illuminate downtown Rockford’s riverbanks in a way the community hasn’t experienced before,” Albrecht says. “Imagine a laser light show, choreographed to music, that is set against the backdrop of the riverfront and our downtown cityscape. River Lights will take your breath away.”

Rockford Dance Company performs throughout the evening at the Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., and Moonlight Jazz Orchestra spices up the night

R  O R at Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St., starting at 7 p.m. An indoor SantaLand takes place at Stewart Square, 308 W. State St., where kids can meet Santa and his friends. A second horse-and-wagon ride departs from Main Street, near the Nordlof Center.

“Having two distinct, yet similar, family fun zones was an important element to the planning process this year,” says Albrecht. “We wanted to give more families the opportunity to see Santa and to take a horse-and-wagon ride, so

offering those activities on both sides of the river was important.”

Visitors can also see a Lisa Frost Studio artwork display in the grand lobby of Rockford’s City Hall, 125 E. State St.; a Fire & Ice display, where large blocks of ice are combined with bonfires at the corner of East State and Second Street; a showcase of “Randy Finch and the Ice Brigade” ice sculptures; a performance

by The Firelight Dimmers at Stewart Square. Multiple s’mores stations will be set up throughout the festival.

Prepare for your visit by downloading an interactive “Plan Your Stroll” app at strollonstate.com, usable on smartphones, tablets and desktop computers.

“The app allows you to pre-plan and pick specific attractions and events you want to attend,” says Andrea Mandala, RACVB marketing and communications manager. “You’ll have a personalized map to use the night of the event.”

“We are continuously looking for ways to make the Stroll experience easier

and yet more dynamic for those coming to the celebration,” Albrecht adds. “The Plan Your Stroll tool gives attendees another way to get the most out of their experience.”

Guests also can sign up to receive text messages throughout the night regarding any emergency announcements or updates, as well as event and activity reminders.

For a modest fee, Stroll attendees can park at any parking deck in downtown Rockford during the event. Onstreet parking and surface parking lots are available as posted, and three remote parking lots with free shuttle bus transportation are available at the YMCA, 200 Y Blvd.; Heartland Community Church, 1280 S. Alpine Road; and Illinois Bank & Trust, 4048 E. State St. Shuttle busses run from 3-9:30 p.m.

“Stroll on State is a magical experience,” Mandala says. “We are very fortunate to have this event for the Rockford community to enjoy.” ❚

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Nov. 25

Y H

Heart Health: 12 Things You Should Know

By FHN, Freeport eart disease accounts for 28.5 percent of American deaths, with malignant tumors placing second at 22.8 percent, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. FHN offers the following heart health advice.

1. Don’t smoke or use tobacco. When you quit, your risk of heart disease drops dramatically within a year.

2. Exercise at least 30 to 60 minutes on most days of the week. Everything from housework to walking the dog counts! If you don’t have time to “work out,” break up your exercise time into 10-minute sessions throughout the day.

3. Reduce stress. Operating in “panic mode” raises your blood pressure, makes your heart work harder, and elevates your body’s levels of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Try deep breathing, guided imagery or yoga to reduce stress levels.

4. See your health care provider reg-

We’re h ere , for you.

H

Signs of Heart Attack • Chest discomfort (uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain) • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body (arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach) • Shortness of breath • Breaking out in a cold sweat • Nausea • Lightheadedness

ularly and ask how you can improve your health.

5. Know your risk factors for heart disease. Your provider will check your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose level and explain how they affect your risk of developing heart disease.

6. Control diabetes. It’s important to monitor and keep your blood glucose levels under control. About two-thirds of people with diabetes die of heart or blood vessel disease.

7. Control high blood pressure, since

it can increase your risk of heart disease.

Have your blood pressure checked at least once every two years.

8. Maintain a healthy weight and pay attention to portion sizes. Eat lots of nutritious vegetables and fruits.

9. Choose whole grains over white bread and stay away from refined grain products like frozen waffles, quick breads and sweets.

10. Limit unhealthy fats and cholesterol in your diet. Choose lean meats with less than 10 percent fat. When you do use fats, choose healthier ones like olive or canola oil, and cholesterol-lowering margarine spreads.

11. Reduce sodium use. Much of the sodium you get comes from processed foods, so watch labels. Use herbs and spices to flavor your foods.

12. No matter how healthy you are, make sure you know the signs of a heart attack, shown above. ❚

Area’s best in patient safety FHN Memorial Hospital was recently recognized for a second year for our patient safety record by the world’s largest independent, non-profit product-

We at FHN are committed to a safe patient experience, and are proud that

and service-testing organization. In their second U.S. study, in which safety scores were calculated for nearly 2,000 hospitals, only 6% nationwide – and only four hospitals in Illinois – earned a score

FHN Memorial Hospital, which scored higher than any other hospital close to the communities it serves.*

as high or higher as

It is our goal to offer our communities the best possible healthcare services we can provide, and recognition such as this confirms our commitment to your confidence in our processes and capabilities.

Whether you need surgery, cancer treatment or other specialty care close to home, a hand in welcoming a new baby into your life, help in handling a chronic health condition, or emergency care,

choose the best in the area for patient safety: FHN.

For more information, visit www.fhn.org or call 1-877-6000-FHN (1-877-600-0346).

* Within a 50-mile radius of Freeport

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*All times are approximate

5:00 pm Live music starts at First National Bank Plaza 6:00 pm Santa arrives & tree lighting begins at the plaza 6:15 pm Lighted parade begins along Grand Avenue (from 3rd Street to Horace White Park)

7:00 pm Santa visits the Turtle Creek Bookstore (444 E. Grand Ave.)

Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus!

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Bremel will be broadcasting * Tim live on 1230AM during the parade hot chocolate at the plaza, * Free courtesy of Salvation Army

Y F

Rockford Road Runners Turkey Trot Nov. 26, 9 a.m. The oldest ongoing race in the area, and a longtime tradition for many area runners and families, returns for the 48th time on Thanksgiving morning. $15 individuals/$40 families. Reuben Aldeen Park, 623 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, rockfordroadrunners.org.

Science Cornucopia Nov. 27-28, 11:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. Turn cranberries into chemistry, engage in fruitcake physics and find out what happens to whipped cream when it’s dropped in liquid nitrogen.

Discovery Center Museum, Rockford, (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org.

Beloit Grand Lighted Holiday Parade Nov. 27, 5-8 p.m. Live music and a choral sing in the First National Bank Plaza to warm up the crowd for Santa’s arrival. Corner of State and Grand, Beloit, visitbeloit.com.

Rockford Choral Union Nov. 28 & 29, Sat. 4 p.m., Sun. 3 p.m. anniversary performance. Trinity 70th Lutheran Church, 200 N. First St., Rockford, rockfordchoralunion.org.

3rd Annual Stroll on State Nov. 28, 3-9 p.m. Attend this spectacular holiday event with your family and friends to get you in the holiday spirit. There are plenty of activities to do, decorations to see and delicious foods to eat. Located in downtown Rockford along State Street. Info: strollonstate.com.

Make a Memory Day Nov. 28, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Take a family or group photo in the beautiful Victorian Village. Sessions $15-25. Midway Village Museum, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, mmnh.org.

3rd Annual Sport Management Symposium Dec. 1, 6-8 p.m. Speakers from various areas in the field of sport and recreation management will be on hand to answer questions pertaining to careers in sport management and to share their tips for success. Tickets required, but free of charge. Regents Hall, Burpee Center, Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 226-4100, Rockford.edu/ artslectures/forum.

Sunday in the Park with George Dec. 2-12. Experience one of the most acclaimed productions of our time, “A Christmas Carol.”

This story merges past and present into beautiful,

Stroll on State happens Nov. 28 in downtown Rockford.

poignant truths about life, love and the creation of art. Rock Valley College Studio Theatre, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford, (815) 921-2160, rockvalleycollege.edu.

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” Dec. 3, 7 p.m. Movies on Main: Biweekly views of cult classic films. Admission $5 or free with your RPL library card. The Nordlof Center, Rockford, (815) 963-3341, rockfordpubliclibrary.org.

“The Nutcracker” Dec. 5-6. Rockford Dance Company performs this holiday ballet classic with RSO at Coronado Performing Arts Center (CPAC), Rockford, (815) 968-0595, rockforddancecompany.com.

Christmas in the Trenches Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m., 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Experience a re-enactment of the 1914 WWI Christmas truce. Sing carols with the soldiers, take part in the gift exchange, sip hot chocolate and even play football. $10. Midway Village Museum, Rockford, (815) 397-9112, mmnh.org.

Holiday Tea Event Dec. 5, 2-4 p.m. Enjoy sweets, savories and scones along with pots of tea, served by costumed staff members. $35 adults/$30 members/$15 child.

Midway Village Museum, Rockford, (815) 3979112, mmnh.org.

Minecraft Unplugged Dec. 6, 1-4 p.m. Assemble cubelets, construct a village out of newspaper, get your hands on real rocks and minerals, make a torch that lights up, blow away zombies and dabble in pixel art.

Discovery Center Museum, Rockford, (815) 9636769, discoverycentermuseum.org. ❚

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WDL

Restaurant of the Week

Rockford Brewing Co. T

he Rockford Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford, serves up delicious food, great beer, and a view of the Rock River.

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner seven days a week, with a rotating line-up of 16 craft beers on tap, all brewed on-site.

The restaurant and brewery are located inside the 85,000-square-foot Prairie Street Brewhouse, a multi-use venue that was home to the original Rockford Brewing Co., which operated from 1849-1939.

The brewery is a backdrop to the bar, which is made of reclaimed materials from the 1849 building. Restaurant decor features exposed original brick and ductwork. “It’s a mix of old and new, and people like the natural look of the original building, with the warmth of wood,” says Chris Manuel, vice president of Rockford Brewing Co., and co-owner of the business with Reed Sjostrom and Dustin Koch.

Top Picks for Local Restaurants Arturo's Mexican Restaurant E Casual/Authentic Fresh Mexican. 107 W. Main St., Poplar Grove, (815) 765-1144.

LD M 11am-8pm; Tue-Th 11am-9pm; Fri 11am-10pm; Sun noon-8pm. $.

Bravo Pizza E Italian/American. 376 Prairie Hill Rd., South Beloit, (815) 624-7900. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $.

Cannova’s Italian Cuisine E Casual. 1101 W. Empire St., Freeport, (815) 233-0032. D T-Th, Sun 5-9pm; F-Sat 10pm. $-$$.

Ciao Bella Ristorante E Upscale-Casual/Italian-American.

Extensive wine list; daily specials. 6500 E. Riverside, Loves Park, (815) 654-9900. LD M-F 11am-9pm, Sat 5-9pm. $$.

Costa’s Ristorante E Upscale-Casual. 133 Blackhawk Dr., Byron, Ill., (815) 234-4707. Open daily 4pm. $-$$.

Dos Reales E Casual/Mexican. Authentic Mexican fare, lunch menu. 5855 E. State St., Rockford, (815) 227-4979. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat to 10:30pm. $-$$.

Ebeneezer Brown Eatery & Pub E Casual. American classics.

4866 Bluestem Road, Roscoe; (815) 270-1213. LD Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. $-$$.

Giordano’s Famous Stuffed Pizza E Casual/Italian. Pick-up/ delivery. 333 Executive Pkwy., Rockford, Ill. (815) 398-5700.

LD Sun-Th 9am-11p.m; F-Sat to midnight. $.

JMK Nippon Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar E Upscale-

The menu features daily specials, and appetizers such as shrimp & avocado ceviche, truffle fries, a hummus plate and Poutine, made with Yukon gold fries, screw city light braised pork belly, cheese curds and her- Reed Sjostrom, Chris Manuel and Dustin Koch. bed bacon gravy.

“Handhelds” are sandwiches like pulled curried cauliflower and peas and cucumber pork, screw city light corned beef, turkey mint yogurt. For dessert, there’s a root beer club, and a BLT, which can be served with float, pie in a pint, cheesecake of the day or a half-pound beef patty, cherrywood bacon, crème brûlée. and/or duck bacon. In addition, there are This summer, Dinner on the Dock will soups and salads, sides like house-made be offered each Thursday from 5-10 p.m., chips with sea salt and build-your-own piz- with a special sandwich menu and live zas. music from 6-9 p.m.

Entrées include fish and chips, MediRockford Brewing Co. is open Sun.terranean beer chicken, ribeye steak, black- Wed., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thurs. to midnight; ened bone-in pork chop, and Grilled Jail and Fri.-Sat. to 2 a.m. For reservations, call Island Salmon, served with coconut rice, (815) 227-9427. ❚

In the Spotlight Casual. Food cooked tableside. 2551 N. Perryville, Rockford, (815) 877-0505. L T-F 11:30am-2pm, Sat 2:30pm; D M-Th 5-9:30pm, F-Sat 10:30pm, Sun 4:30-9:30pm. $$.

Main Street Bistro E Casual/Fine dining. Th&Sat. 109 S. Galena, Freeport, (815) 232-2322. M-Sat 2pm-midnight. $$.

Maciano’s Pizza & Pastaria E Casual. Beer/wine. 6746 Broadcast Pkwy., Loves Park, (815) 963-7869. LD Sun-Th 11am-10pm, F-Sat 11pm. $$.

Maxson Riverside Restaurant E Casual/American. 1469 IL Route 2, Oregon, Ill., (800) 468-4222. LD M-Sat 11am-8pm, Br Sun 10am-3pm. $$.

Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint E Fine Dining. Ironworks Hotel, 500 Pleasant St., Beloit, Wis. (608) 313-0700. D Sun.Th 4:30-9pm, Fri-Sat. 10pm. $$.

Napoli Pizzeria III & Top Dollar Slots E Takeout/delivery.

6560 N. Alpine, Loves Park, (815) 877-9888. LD daily 11am.

Prairie Street Brewhouse E Upscale-Casual/American. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, (815) 277-9427. LD Sun-W 11am-10pm, Th to midnight, F-Sat to 2am. $-$$.

Tavern on Clark E Casual/American. 755 Clark Ave., Rockford, (815) 708-7088. LD daily 10am. $-$$.

This Is It Eatery E Casual/American. 16 N. Chicago Ave., Freeport, (815) 616-5449. LD T-Th 11am-8pm, F-Sat 10pm. $.

Vito’s Ristorante E Casual/Authentic Italian. 1620 N. Bell School Rd., Rockford, (815) 312-5080. LD T-Sat 11am. $$. ❚

C

Cannova’s

annova’s has been serving up authentic Italian dishes and pizza since Anthony and Philippina Cannova started the restaurant 1921.

Today, their granddaughter, Linda, and her husband, Patrick Beckman, carry on the tradition, at 1101 W. Empire St. They use many original recipes for pizza, spaghetti sauce, Italian beef, fresh bread and pizza dough.

House specials include a Sicilian filet, marinated in olive oil and red wine; Italian-style baked cod; and seafood Alfredo. Linda’s made-from-scratch desserts include tiramisu, cheesecake and chocolate spoon cake.

Then there are the award-winning pizzas: the Classic; the New York; the double-crusted Gloria Read, named for a longtime customer; and the Sicilian.

Cannova’s is open Sun.-Tues. 5-10 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. until 11 p.m. ❚

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(Blake Nunes photo)

By Peggy Werner

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Nov. 25

Mortgage Advisor 15 Yr Fixed

Lenders Byron Bank

Rate

byronbank.com

APR*

(815) 234-2561 Mo. Payment*

30 Yr Fixed

30 Yr Jumbo FHA/VA & ARM

3.06%

3.91%

3.75%

$988.20

$672.94

$671.49

3.44%

4.46%

4.79%

Please Call

Smart Living Weekly Magazine’s Mortgage Advisor is intended to provide you with a guide to securing the mortgage you seek. Quoted rates are supplied by the institutions (as of Nov. 23, 2015) and can change daily. Interest rates and monthly payment installments are based on a $150,000 loan with a 5% down payment and 0 points; FHA with a 3.5% down payment and 0 points. APR is based on a good faith estimate of prepaid finance charges. Your APR will vary according to the specifics of your transactions. Contact the bank, credit union or S&L directly for their most current rates. The mortgage rate you obtain will be based upon your credit rating, loan amount and standing with that particular financial institution. * APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Mo. Payment = The monthly principal and interest payment.

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Y O

‘Shop Local – Eat Local Saturday’ is Dec. 5 F or the fifth consecutive year, many locally owned businesses will come together in one place to make it easy for residents do their Christmas shopping while supporting the local community.

“Shop Local – Eat Local Saturday” is set for Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rockford University’s Regents Hall, 5050 E. State St. The event is organized by Winnebago Buy Local and is designed to support locally owned businesses while providing a unique experience for shoppers.

“It’s festive, fabulous and fun for every age group and for people in every walk of life, and it greatly benefits our community with unique gift ideas, even for those who ‘have everything,” says Lauren Davis, director of Winnebago Buy Local.

By supporting local businesses, up to 68 cents of every dollar stays in the local economy, significantly more than if that

dollar is spent at a business owned by outof-towners.

“Supporting these types of locally owned businesses allows a community to retain more of its wealth and to be a unique place to live, work and visit,” says Davis.

For every square foot a local firm occupies, the local economy gains $179 vs. $105 for a national chain store.

Admission to A Local Holiday Market is free, there’s ample parking and all ages are welcome.

Representatives from Rosie’s Birthday Club will custom gift wrap purchases for a donation.

Free reusable shopping bags will be given to the first 200 families who pass through the doors of A Local Holiday Market 2015.

Sponsors of this event include Rock Valley Credit Union, Diana Alexander, Alpine Body Shop and A-Sign Designs.

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Winnebago Buy Local was established in 2010 and has grown into a coalition of 200 locally owned businesses working together to make people more aware of how it benefits the entire community when residents support grassroots stores, restaurants and other businesses. ❚

Get SLW Outings articles every week. Visit NWQSmartLiving.com and start your e-Edition today.

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